One of the neatest biplane fighters is also one of the last to serve with the RAF. That is the Gloster Gladiator. The Gladiator was a successful export fighter, being sent to many countries abroad. One of those who used it with much success was the Finnish Air Force, and that is the subject of this decal sheet from Tally-Ho of Canada.

Tally-ho sheets are small but very well done. This particular sheet gives sufficient decals to do any one of at least three Gladiators, all of 2/LeLv 16.

The first aircraft is GL-267 from Autumn 1940 in standard RAF scheme of Greens and Earths. The underside is aluminum with the underside of the lower wing painted in white on the starboard and black on the port side. When one adds the yellow theater markings under the wing and  the fuselage band from June 1941, it makes for a very colorful aircraft!!

Next is GL-264 in standard green and black with blue-grey undersides. This has eastern front theater markings and a white crocodile unit marking on the fin. Most of the white in the upper wing roundel has been painted out on this aircraft

Finally is is GL-270, which is standard in every way regarding its markings. What distinguishes this aircraft is that it is on skis.

The instruction sheet is quite complete, giving FS numbers (or a close equivalent) for each color. There are also notes on what needs to be done to modify the only 1/48 Gladiator kit that is available. This is the elderly, but very good Impact kit that is currently available from Lindberg. One does need to replace the wooden two bladed prop with a nice three bladed one as befits a Gladiator II. This prop can be robbed from a Testors/Hawk Lysander or the new Tamiya Swordfish!

Review copy courtesy of Flightdecs. Visit them for a selection from over 40 decal lines as well as photo-etch and resin accessories.

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